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Why lubricate the battery terminals. How to lubricate the battery terminals from oxidation? Graphite grease for battery terminals

18.11.2019

Very often, during diagnostics, car owners look under the hood and notice that the terminals battery covered with white bloom. To preserve and extend the life of the battery, and as a result, and the performance of the car, you need to figure out why this is happening and how to deal with it.

Causes of terminal oxidation

To begin with, it is worth mentioning what the main task of the battery battery is to ensure a reliable start of the engine. All other functions are secondary. Due to the presence of the battery, the on-board systems of the car can work even with the engine off, but still its main task is to start the engine. Due to the complexity of the device, the battery can either deteriorate its characteristics, or even fail.

The main battery malfunctions are:

1) Oxidized terminals and lead pins;

2) Broken body integrity, leading to leakage of electrolyte;

3) Excessively fast self-discharge.

Now about the causes of oxidation. The main reasons why white bloom appears on the terminals are:

1) Leakage of electrolyte. This is the state of the battery itself. This happens often during recharging - this can happen due to the generator and the battery charging circuit. Another reason for leakage may be the closure of the cells on the battery, as well as the different density of the electrolyte. Remember also about the quality of the battery case. Electrolyte can leak from cracks and cracks in the housing. The terminals can also oxidize due to the ingress of electrolyte on it through the gap near the battery contact. It is formed while the terminal vibrates or loosens in the case itself.

2) Problems with the car power supply. The root cause of plaque formation is poor contact between the contact and the battery terminal itself. Another similar phenomenon takes place due to bad contacts in contact groups, relays and other narrow areas of the wiring.

3) Clogged ventilation holes of the battery cans. Accumulated dirt builds up the pressure of the electrolyte in the battery. Excessive pressure can cause fluid to flow out through the holes in the body.

Basically, oxidized terminals indicate that it will soon come when you have to replace the battery. Regardless of the reasons for the appearance of traces of electrolyte on the battery terminals, the leaking acid has an extremely negative effect on the condition of your car.

In order to determine if the acid has gotten to the terminals of your battery, it is enough to rinse it with a warm solution of soda (the maximum is a ten percent solution, otherwise hard-to-remove white spots will form). If there was acid on the terminals, then traces of electrolyte will begin to wash off, this will manifest itself through a boiling reaction and the release of a small amount of heat. It is advisable to carry out this operation over the prepared container, so that nothing gets on the body parts. If you can remove the battery, do so so that you can flush the battery either outdoors or in the garage. If the white bloom of soda does not "take", then use sandpaper or a knife. You can generally purchase a special brush for cleaning the terminals.

Often on the forums you can read that the car owner will clean the battery terminals with gasoline, after which he was blinded by the shine of the metal. Always remember that gasoline is a combustible material that has solvent properties and can dissolve rubber and plastic during cleaning. But the most the best way- this is the prevention of oxidation, and not the sequential removal of electrolyte residues from the terminals. The sooner you find the problem and eliminate the cause of its occurrence, the less damage the car will receive.

Methods to combat oxidation

Remember that even in a fully functional and working battery, a small amount of acid will still evaporate. Therefore, absolutely all methods of combating oxidation are reduced to ensuring the tightness of the connection. Under no circumstances should any protective compound come into contact with the contact itself. The surface of the terminals and pins must be protected and wiped dry, after which all connections must be securely fixed. Only at the end of these procedures can you apply protective covering... The following known methods of protecting terminals from the formation of white acid deposits on them:

1) Oil and felt. This method has been tested over the years, since it is known that this was the method of protection chosen by our grandfathers. That is why this option is so popular among car owners. To ensure that electrolyte vapors do not get on the terminal and do not harm it, as well as to minimize the impact external factors to the terminal, they are covered with felt, which has been pre-soaked in machine oil.

In order to do this, you need to cut out a round gasket from the felt with a hole in the middle. The prepared gasket must be soaked in oil and put on battery contact(terminal). After that, you need to put on the terminal of the on-board network of the car on the contact, that is, screw it, after which you also need to put an oiled felt gasket on top.

2) Varnish, grease, technical petroleum jelly. In principle, any liquid material that does not wash off and insulates can be taken. Silicone lubricants work well. It is this material that is used by car owners due to the fact that all other materials absorb dust and dirt.

3) Felt washers. The method is the same as with felt. A washer must be put on the terminal in order to protect it.

4) Special grease (anti-grease) with anti-corrosion properties. These products are sold in the form of aerosols, which must be applied to the terminals. You can find this tool in a specialized store.

Choosing a grease for battery terminals

The choice of grease for the battery terminals must be clear, as otherwise problems may arise. Negligence in choosing may turn out after a while the need to start up "with a jolt", and after a while it will be necessary to replace the battery at all, since it will completely fail. Rebuilding a battery is very costly from a financial point of view, and the purchase will cost even more. The issue of choosing a lubricant for terminals is a subject of controversy that has not subsided for a long time. Among car owners there are adherents of the latest technical developments in the industry, while others prefer proven methods. The pros and cons should be considered.

Preventive maintenance is the key to a long battery life. Since plaque prevention is better than permanent plaque removal, you need to find out the root cause of this phenomenon. In this matter, it is enough to simply seal, through which electrolyte vapors escape. Before you grease the terminals, you need to remove the already formed oxide and accumulated dust from the battery. Earlier it was said that traces of electrolyte vapors are removed with a soda solution, and dust can be removed with ordinary distilled water.

The most popular lubricant is the time-tested grease. This option is very common, as it has been used for a long time. After the terminals are tightened, grease should be applied to them with a thin layer. After that, you will forget about the problem for about six months, then only on the condition that everything is hermetically sealed and there is no breakdown. Next in popularity is petroleum jelly - both pharmaceutical and technical. Although this method is quite controversial, if only because solidol is used even by those who prefer innovations. Vaseline protects the terminals well enough from moisture, prevents them from being soldered to the battery case, but there are problems with conductivity.

In order to overcome them, you need to add graphite lubricant to the petroleum jelly. Option for especially lazy ones: when you check the oil, grease the terminals with a dipstick. Since the oil level needs to be checked often, the lubricant will be renewed regularly, it will not be necessary to carry out preventive maintenance soon, but only if it is working properly. It is advisable to remove accumulated dust from the surface from time to time. You can make a mistake that many people have made before you - when treating with grease, many lay it between the terminals of the battery and wires.

At the same time, car owners do not remember that in conditions of high temperature, which is catching up during the operation of the "heart" of the car, the solid oil solidifies, that is, as a result, we have a dry, very dense crust. The current will not pass through it, from which the contact disappears. It is very difficult to remove this very crust. Such warnings apply not only to grease, but also to other lubricants - problems that arise during their operation are also quite difficult to eliminate.

If you are an adherent of technical progress, then the grease from car dealerships will suit your battery. Highly good feedback received Molykote HSC Plus grease, which was specially developed for batteries FIAMM although applicable to other batteries as well. It is characterized by a fairly high electrical conductivity, as well as the ability to maintain their specifications with temperature fluctuations from -30 to + 1100 ° C. Next in popularity are German spray lubricants.

They do not create a contact resistance, but they provide a stable voltage. It is very convenient to use - you just need to press a button and then you can apply grease. This lubricant is not afraid of temperature, and it will also prevent oxidation from electrolyte vapors. The most loyal in terms of price is the "Tsiatim" agent, but it has problems with conductivity - some consider it insufficient.

It is clear that the manufacturer does not always conscientiously select the battery, or rather, the installed devices do not have the most successful design, each jar may have its own lid, under which dirt and dust will surely penetrate. Since there are several plugs, the risk of debris entering the electrolyte significantly increases. All plugs can be made using a felt cap, after soaking the material in oil, but it will be quite difficult to make, install and use such a device. A more reasonable decision would be to make a general protection - something like an anther. Even linoleum is suitable for this, but outwardly it will not look entirely aesthetically pleasing. You can take a rug from the "classic", which needs to be made to fit the lid. Here he will lie like a glove.

Be vigilant when diagnosing a battery. It is important to detect the problem in time so that it does not develop further to more disastrous consequences. I wish you success.

Oxidation of electrical conductors is a common problem that cannot be dealt with even in the 21st century. This malfunction of the electrical network manifests itself especially strongly on the battery terminals.

The high discharge current, as well as the abundant evaporation of the electrolyte, significantly accelerate the oxidation process, so you have to start dealing with "scale" from the moment you buy a car.

How to minimize, and what means to use for this purpose, will be described in detail in this article.

Reasons for oxidation

To effectively combat this phenomenon, it is necessary to know under what conditions this process develops especially rapidly.

The most common causes of rapid oxidation are:

  1. Insufficient contact between lead pins and terminals.
  2. Electrolyte outlet through microcracks.

To reduce the negative effects of the oxidation process, the terminals should be tightened well with a wrench. If this is not done, then very soon the car will stop starting due to the formed "scale", which will impede the normal flow of electric current.

The electrolyte, when released to the surface, accelerates the oxidation process. You can cut rings from thin felt on the lead pins.

How to deal with this phenomenon

If all preventive measures are followed, then you can additionally protect the battery from oxidation using special compounds.

Battery terminal grease is a plastic mass that can effectively protect critical electrical components of a car or other device from oxidation. Despite the fact that the use of this composition does not provide one hundred percent protection, it is possible to significantly slow down the formation of plaque on electrical contacts.

Conductive grease provides reliable contact, which will contribute not only to an increase in the service life of the battery, but also have a positive effect on all electrical wiring and vehicle equipment.

Lithol has been used as a lubricant for battery terminals for over 45 years. This composition well protects the surface from the formation of "scale". The widespread use of Litol was caused by the lack of special lubricants during the Soviet era.

Currently, the shelves of specialty stores are filled with various products that help prolong the life of the battery. Such a variety of names does not make it easy to choose a suitable means for protecting the terminals, therefore, before going to the store for a purchase, it is necessary to compare information about different manufacturers.

The best lubricants for battery terminals

Among the variety of means for protection, there are several manufacturers whose products are in demand among motorists, and the price / quality ratio is as balanced as possible.

1. LIQUI MOLY ( liqui moly) - allows the motorist to forget about the manifestation of the oxidation process for a long time.

If this composition is used from the first days of battery operation, then plaque does not form on the metal surface. The drug is supplied in the form of an aerosol can with a volume of 0.3 liters (price 510 rubles) and a stick package 10 g (price 70 rubles, production is discontinued). This amount is sufficient to ensure the uninterrupted operation of the electrical contacts during the entire service life.

2.MS 1710 - high quality lubricant at an affordable price. The cost of a stick package 10 g is 57 rubles, and an aerosol of 100 ml is 135 rubles.

Perfectly protects the battery terminals from oxidation and other negative factors... Forms a protective film on the surface that prevents the penetration of acid and moisture.

Reviews of MC 1710 are of an extremely positive nature, and this is not surprising because, in addition to the high degree of protection, this tool has a record low cost among similar means of protection.

3. ABRO BP-675 - aerosol composition. The 142 ml can is designed for repeated use, the price is 370 rubles. The protective layer remains after application for a long time and perfectly protects the terminals from acid corrosion.

Before applying grease to the surface, it is necessary to clean it from the formed layer of "scale", only in this case the use of the ABRO brand will help to reliably protect the battery contacts.

Conclusion

Protective grease can significantly increase the service life of not only the terminals, but also the battery. Correct care behind this element of electrical equipment, will avoid the situation when starting the car caused by the formation of "scale" becomes impossible.

If it is not possible to purchase a high-quality mixture, you can use the "old-fashioned" method. Many motorists are interested in whether it is possible to lubricate the battery terminals with graphite grease?

This can be done only in case of emergency, it is also possible to use Litol, but these compositions are not able to fully protect the battery terminals.

Specialized tools do not cost a lot of money so that you can save a lot. And neglect of the rules for caring for the battery will lead to its imminent failure or to the inability to start the car engine.

It is recommended to lubricate the car battery terminals. But first you need to clarify: why do this procedure?

It is recommended to lubricate the car battery terminals. But first you need to clarify: why do this procedure? Grease is applied to avoid oxide build-up. It is a white bloom. In fact, we are talking about oxidation caused by the influence of an aggressive environment and, first of all, electrolyte vapors. In the first stages of battery operation, the formation of oxide is almost imperceptible. But gradually the emergence white bloom negatively affects the performance of the battery. As a result, current leakage begins to occur, leading to rapid discharge and startup difficulties. power unit.

If the car owner ignores this problem for a long time, then the terminals will need to be changed or restored. Let's consider how you can avoid this situation.

If you choose a large online store, then the buyer will be able to find more than 10 different formulations. But practice shows that only a few effectively cope with the task.

In which case the question arises: how to lubricate the battery terminals from oxidation to achieve a positive effect and not spend extra money?

Reviews indicate that from the numerous compositions, no more than 5 can be distinguished that really deserve attention. The main criteria for the assessment are:

  • the ability to operate at low and high temperatures;
  • efficiency. We are talking about protective characteristics, thanks to which the terminals are protected from corrosive processes;
  • ease of use;
  • duration of the effect;
  • elimination of discharges.

The table shows TOP-5 lubricants with high acid resistance, tightness and viscosity. Here you can also get acquainted with the temperature range during operation.

When choosing an effective composition for the battery terminals, it is recommended to take into account the following parameters:

  • resistance to acids. The substance should minimize the level of formation of oxidative processes;
  • viscosity level. It is one of the most important properties. Since the device is operated at high temperatures, the lubricants decompose. Therefore, with a low or medium viscosity of the composition, the car owner will often have to apply it to the surface of the terminals;
  • temperature Range. Vehicle can be operated at low and high temperatures. Therefore, the lubricant must perform its function throughout the year. At the same time, the viscosity level should remain high;
  • protection against moisture and oxygen. This parameter must be understood as tightness;
  • dielectricity.

Not all lubricants meet the requirements listed. Some of them are quite good at protecting against condensation and oxygen exposure. At the same time, they have insufficient viscosity.

Other greases are highly acid resistant, but are not designed for use over a wide range of operating temperatures.

It should be emphasized that in the listed parameters there is no consideration of the basis. It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with this criterion before purchasing a lubricant.

This foundation is almost perfect. It can be used during operation from minus 60 to plus 180 degrees. The silicone base flawlessly displaces condensation, prevents oxidation and has perfect dielectricity. At the same time, all silicone-based lubricants have a rather significant drawback - high fluidity. Therefore, a car owner who chooses such a lubricant will often have to look under the hood and apply it to the surface of the terminals. When buying such a composition, you need to pay attention to the absence of conductive components.

The products of the German brand Liqui Moly are especially popular with car owners. The composition of the Presto brand has not bad performance characteristics, the cost of which is much lower in Liqui Moly. The photo shows the grease for the battery terminals of the indicated brands.

Silicone is used as the main component of such substances. Some sources state that Teflon greases are excellent for protecting against oxidation of battery terminals. In fact, the substance in question is a "liquid key". It has a high penetrating power. Therefore, it is necessary to use Teflon lubricants for other purposes, and to protect the terminals from the appearance of white deposits, it is recommended to look for other substances.

Polymer and organic products can be used to protect the battery terminals. Polymer or synthetic backing is ideal for protecting moving parts. In this case, the purpose of the product is to provide maximum protection against oxidation. Therefore, it is better to choose a mineral base and focus on additives. It should be noted that the presence of various types of additives demonstrates the maximum efficiency in protecting terminals from corrosion processes. The most common mineral-based greases are as follows:

  • petroleum jelly - is a greasy liquid. Depending on the cleaning level, it can have a translucent color, as well as black and yellow. The main components are mineral oils and paraffins. The tool is used in the medical industry and the technical segment. All varieties of petroleum jelly can be used to lubricate the terminals, but experts recommend using a translucent compound, which can be bought at almost any pharmacy. If the composition in question is dark in color, then most likely it is intended for technical purposes. It must be applied only with gloves, avoiding contact with exposed skin. The composition has high temperature melting. Resistant to electrolyte and moisture. Therefore, it copes well with the tasks set, protecting the battery terminals from oxidative processes;
  • Cyatim 201. This substance does not conduct electric current and dries quickly on the surface. Resistant to low temperatures;
  • Solid oil. This material is highly resistant to moisture and high level fire safety. A significant disadvantage of the lubricant is the increase in fluidity when the temperature rises to plus 65 degrees. It is recommended to use it only if there are no other means from the owner of the car.

Litol can also be used as a lubricant. It has approximately the same characteristics as solid oil. Both greases are oil-based. It should be noted that many car owners still use these funds, despite the abundance of modern formulations.

Among modern means highlight the LIQUI MOLY KUPFER-SPRAY spray. It is designed for operation at temperatures from minus 30 degrees to plus 1000. The aerosol contains mineral oil... According to the instructions, this aerosol is intended for processing brake pads... However, it can be used for battery terminals. In the process of applying the spray, it is recommended to cover the area around the terminals with tape.

Especially for terminals, Liqui Moly produces Batterie-Pol-Fett, which paints the surface red. The substance can be used at temperatures ranging from minus 40 to plus 60 degrees Celsius. Reliably protects the metal surface from corrosive processes. According to its physicochemical characteristics, the composition in question is technical petroleum jelly. Also, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, it can be used to protect the connectors and contacts of the vehicle's electrical network.

Spray Vmpauto MC1710 is made on the basis of organic and polymer oils combined with silicone. The tool is intended for use at temperatures from minus 10 to plus 80 degrees. It is considered a fairly effective remedy for protection against water and corrosive environments.

Batterie-Pol-Schutz is produced by the Presto brand. The main component of the composition is wax. Designed to protect against corrosive processes, moisture oxidation. The manufacturer claims that when using the Batterie-Pol-Schutz, the power of the battery does not decrease, and creeping discharges are excluded. The substance can be operated at temperatures from minus 30 to plus 130 degrees Celsius. It is sold in aerosol cans.

In general, all wax-based lubricants of which Batterie-Pol-Schutz is a representative have many benefits:

  • maximum retention rate;
  • high tightness;
  • no wandering discharges.

For these purposes, consistent substances are used, which contain special thickeners. Such formulations are almost 90% polymeric or organic oil. Additional elements are additives and other components. Molykote HSC Plus grease is a fairly popular product. Unlike other compositions, the agent in question is intended to improve electrical conductivity. Also, the composition has high performance characteristics and can be used at temperatures from minus 30 to plus 1100 degrees.

The battery terminal paste in question is sold in 100 ml tubes. It should be emphasized that increasing the electrical conductivity of Molykote HSC Plus paste is a rather important advantage and sets it apart from competitors.

Among professional car owners, grease with copper pigment, which is based on organic or polymer oil, has become widespread. An example is Berner grease, which can be operated at temperatures from minus 40 to 1000 degrees. The tool is sold in the form of an aerosol can. Like Molykote HSC Plus, it has a high electrical conductivity and also provides protection for:

  • from corrosion;
  • oxidation.

The improved composition reliably protects the battery terminals from oxidative processes and exposure to electrolyte vapors. The composition is red in color due to the presence of copper pigment.

On specialized forums, you can find information that some car owners use graphite-based grease to protect the terminals. Such data are unreliable. There are three characteristics graphite-based lubricants:

  1. high level of resistance;
  2. temperature rise during the passage of current;
  3. operation at temperatures from minus 20 to plus 70 degrees.

Therefore, the grease is not intended to treat the terminals. Moreover, under certain conditions, overheating and fire are possible. Considering the listed features of graphite grease, it is not recommended to use it for processing terminals.

It is recommended to apply lubricant before installing the battery. The car owner does not need to wait until a white coating forms on the surface. The procedure does not require frequent intervention: it is enough to apply the lubricant once every 2 years. If we are talking about maintenance-free battery, that lubricant may well be enough for three to four years. The frequency of application of the composition depends on several criteria:

  • storage battery;
  • operating conditions;
  • the condition of the vehicle's wiring;
  • environment.

If, as a result of cleaning the metal surface of the terminal, traces of oxidation reappear, then using a lubricant will not help. Most likely the problem is overcharging or cracking.

The work on cleaning the terminals involves the following algorithm:

  1. dismantling of terminals;
  2. cleaning the surface with a felt or brush. A soda solution will help to simplify the procedure;
  3. rinsing with distilled water;
  4. installation and treatment with a lubricant.

Various agents can be used for surface treatment, depending on the oxidation state:

  • fine-grained sandpaper. It is recommended to use it, since no abrasive particles will remain on the surface;
  • Toothbrush. This tool is relevant to use only if the car owner plans to carry out preventive maintenance. The same goes for dishwashing sponges;
  • felt - is one of the best materials for removing oxidation traces;
  • special scraper (shown in the photo below);
  • special brushes. Such devices can be purchased from a specialized online store. Toptul and Autoprofi brands are distinguished by high-quality performance;
  • soda solution. For cooking, you will need about a quarter liter of distilled water and 1.5 tablespoons of baking soda.

If a thorough cleaning of the surface is required, then you can use a drill by installing a special brush attachment. When using a drill, it is not recommended to exert significant force. Removal of traces of oxidation is much more efficient with little effort.

Before carrying out work, it is necessary to assess the condition of the terminals. If a white coating has just appeared on the surface of the metal, then it is quite enough to use a soda solution and felt. In exceptional situations, you will have to resort to using a special tool.

The terminals of any storage battery are regularly exposed to the negative effects of aggressive environments. As a result, oxidative processes occur, which are reflected in a decrease performance characteristics battery. The motorist's job is to ensure the functionality of the battery and to protect it from aggressive influences. Therefore, it is necessary to correctly approach the choice of a lubricant. As noted, the composition must conduct current, be distinguished by high tightness and viscosity. The article lists the most popular and effective means... But their use is relevant only in cases where the situation is not taken to an extreme.

We suggest that you watch the video, which discusses the most effective means for protecting the terminals. The article discusses the main reasons for the appearance of white plaque on the terminals and the ways to eliminate them.

Car owners will be able to directly familiarize themselves with the catalog of modern lubricants. The catalog contains effective means of well-known and little-known brands. Buyers will be able to purchase oil-based and silicone-based lubricants, lubricating pastes and other formulations.

The cost of a product depends on a number of criteria, from the brand to the composition. The method of application is also important. For example, Presto Batterie-Pol-Schutz of the Dutch brand will cost the buyer from 1,600 to 1,900 tenge. Molykote HSC Plus conductive paste in a 100 ml container costs approximately 5800 tenge. Funds famous brand Liqui Moly is presented in a wide range. Silicone lubricants in disposable packages can be purchased for 450-550 tenge. In general, the purchase of expensive funds in large-volume containers is relevant for specialized services.

For the average car owner, a small tube is quite enough, especially since under standard conditions the tool will need to be used once every few years.

Battery - important element vehicle, ensuring a trouble-free start of the power plant.

Common problems with the assembly are represented by electrolyte leaks, self-discharge too quickly. But more often there are problems of oxidation of the terminals, which leads to a deterioration in the characteristics of the device, and other malfunctions.

Timely care allows you to prevent unwanted manifestations. You need to know how and how to lubricate the terminals so that they do not oxidize. Correct selection lubrication avoids oxidation processes, and eliminates the need for constant cleaning. But before applying the product, it is worth understanding the cause of the problem that has arisen:

  1. Electrolyte leaks are common. They arise as a result of problems with the case, vibrations, during recharging of the battery, malfunctions with the generator.
  2. Problems with the electrical network of the machine. Represented by bad contacts between the drive and terminals.
  3. Dirty battery ventilation holes. The accumulation of dust, dirt particles is accompanied by an increase in pressure. This causes electrolyte to leak out.

Oxidation is an undesirable manifestation accompanied by:

  • deterioration of wiring, contacts;
  • gradually there are problems with starting the motor;
  • increased resistance, self-discharge.

It is believed that such processes indicate the need for an early replacement of the drive. In any case, electrolyte leakage does not have the best effect on the condition of the car.


  • Brand cleaner.
  • Lubrication of stamps for long-term protection.

What means are used for protection, processing?

The main purpose lubricants is to protect contacts, elements that are made of lead. It does not hurt to understand why the battery terminals oxidize and require reliable protection.

Reasons for frequent oxidation:

  • lead is highly susceptible to such effects;
  • aggressive environmental impact exacerbates the situation;
  • Serviced models regularly leak;
  • old cars were made with copper terminals, but the contacts are made of lead, as a result, oxidation is faster.

Among other useful functions of lubricating products, the improvement of electrical contact stands out. Modern means are distinguished by these properties. When thinking about how to lubricate the battery terminals for better contact, you should pay attention to the latest developments. They differ in characteristics, paint blurred places in a certain shade - blue, red.

Popular formulations:

  1. Liqui Moly is a renowned manufacturer that produces reliable lubricants similar to technical petroleum jelly.
  2. Molykote HSC Plus is a product suitable for various storage devices. Differs in high electrical conductivity, ability to work with significant temperature fluctuations.
  3. VMPAuto MC1710 is a voltage stabilizing agent. Easy to apply.
  4. Tsiatim is a domestic product that attracts the most affordable price... Its properties are similar to Litol. Therefore, the conductivity is insufficient.

Traditional methods are presented:

  • felt gaskets pre-soaked in oil;
  • grease, technical petroleum jelly with graphite lubricant is applied;
  • washers, felt pads;

It provides excellent protection, including against moisture, eliminates the soldering of the terminals. Problems can arise with a strong increase in temperatures, when the solid oil solidifies. Therefore, it is preferable to use modern means, aerosols.


Timely care, selection of appropriate materials allows you to save the battery life and its properties. The use of cleaning agents will help fight oxides if they are already present. They must be removed, otherwise protective equipment will be useless.

The cleaning process includes several stages:

  1. Jammed power point, which excludes closure. It is also important to remove all metal jewelry from your hands.
  2. The required key is selected depending on the conclusions.
  3. Work begins by loosening the nuts, which allows you to remove the terminals. It is important to remember how to disconnect the battery terminals - work begins with the negative terminal to avoid a short circuit.
  4. After disconnecting the positive terminal, the battery is inspected for damage. And if there are signs of wear on the wires and elements, replacement will be required.
  5. A solution of soda allows you to remove traces of electrolyte vapors, oxides. For this, a teaspoon of soda is diluted in a 250 ml cup of water.
  6. Using a toothbrush or wire brush, it is easy to remove unwanted deposits.
  7. After complete cleaning the terminals and the drive are washed with water. It is noteworthy that oxides appear more slowly on a clean device.

The final step is connecting the battery terminals and treating the cleaned areas. During the connection, it is worth remembering that the positive terminals are connected first.


Emergency care

If there is no time for thorough processing, it is worth using emergency cleaning products. They differ in their mode of action and characteristics. Therefore, it is important to study the instructions and do not forget about protective equipment.

If you don't have any funds at hand to carry out the work, you can use a regular cola. You will need to prepare protective gloves, pick up a wrench.

Main steps:

  1. The terminals are loosened, not removed.
  2. Cola is poured from the center of the battery to one, and then to the other edge.
  3. After 2 minutes, the device, the contaminated areas are washed with water.
  4. The terminals are tightening.

When greasing the connections, you do not need to separate the terminals and contacts. Protection is applied after connection.

Timely maintenance of the drive, its elements, connections, removal of impurities and oxides allows maintaining good contact. Otherwise, it cannot be ruled out that the terminals will melt. This happens more often in the summer. There are several solutions to the problem. You can replace the terminals or think about how to restore the terminal on the battery with your own hands.

Self-recovery methods:

  1. A shape is made from a finger-type battery by melting lead and tin, and the element is restored. This solution is only suitable for partially melted elements. Before performing the procedure, the fusion site is cleaned, a mold is put on.
  2. Lead fusion is used if the terminal is completely destroyed. Take the rod and battery sheath. The method is suitable for recovery on the road.
  3. If the element has broken off, you can restore it using self-tapping screws. They take pieces of the same size, in which holes are drilled, no more than 5 mm in diameter. Further, they use a conductive grease necessary for processing the planes, connect them with a screw, a self-tapping screw.

Correct operation, cleaning, caring for the battery contributes to the elimination of unpleasant incidents.

Each driver must clearly know how to lubricate the battery terminals so that they do not oxidize, because this makes it possible to avoid problems. An irresponsible attitude in this matter will lead to the fact that for starting off, the car will need to be pushed, and the period of use will decrease. As for its restoration - this is a rather costly business, and buying a new one is even more so.

What tool should you use after all? The question is very relevant among motorists. There are those who are trying to acquire brand new tools, and there are those who trust only proven methods.

The most commonly used lithol is a time-tested remedy. Negrol is also widely used. If you use one of these tools, you can forget about the lubrication of the terminals for six months. Solid oil is also used in tandem with graphite grease. These two components prevent the terminals from sticking to the battery and also increase thermal conductivity.

As for modern tools, the following are used:

  1. Molykote HSC Plus. Has high electrical conductivity. Works at temperatures from -30 to + 1100 degrees Celsius.
  2. Spray grease made in Germany. Well protects the terminals from oxidation. Promotes a stable supply of voltage.
  3. Tsiatim. Has good conductivity indicators. It is famous for its acceptable cost.

Reasons for oxidation

Having dealt with the types of lubricants, you should find out why the battery terminals are oxidized. In fact, there are a number of reasons, here are the main ones:


If the battery terminals are constantly oxidizing, what should I do? It was said above how to behave in the case of the given reasons. But what if the oxidation became so strong that the car stopped starting. In this case, it is necessary to clean the terminals. For this, sandpaper is taken and the plaque is carefully erased. Be very careful not to damage the insulating sheath. Work with gloves. For better contact, use one of the greases mentioned above.

What to do in a situation when only the negative terminal is oxidized? The point is that it should be cleaned regularly. To do this, use a dull knife or sandpaper. Clean properly, to a shine. After everything is done, use lithol or one of the other lubricants listed. It will also have a positive effect on the performance of the powertrain. As for the reasons, this is because the battery is already old. Small cracks appear in its body, from which electrolyte oozes, forming oxides.

When oxidized positive terminal, this can happen for the following reasons:

  1. The tightness of the storage battery is broken in some place. It is necessary to intervene in the situation urgently, because over time, the acid will be able to eat through the body without any problems.
  2. The battery was systematically recharged, which led to overheating and, as a result, it began to evaporate too actively. In this situation, there is nothing left but to go to car market or go to a car shop to buy a brand new device.

Do I need to lubricate the terminals? If a person has carefully read this article, and also just wants his car to work reliably and without interruption, he should apply a special lubricant to the terminals. Without it, oxidative processes will only accelerate, which will disable the battery. There may be such situations that a more significant part will break, and this will entail impressive expenses. By the way, greased terminals contribute to a smoother start-up in those moments when it is severe frost outside.

How to lubricate? At the beginning of the article, the most popular lubricants of both the old and new designs were given. All you need to add is the grease for the liqui moly battery terminals. Among its features should be noted the reliable protection of contacts against corrosion. The motor will work in all weather conditions. Most importantly, the battery life is almost two and a half times longer. This lubrication prevents current leakage. Before applying it, you should clean the required place with high quality. Again, use a knife or sandpaper, as mentioned earlier.